Wetterhorn Basin via West Fork Trail

Wetterhorn Basin via West Fork Trail is a 7.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Lake City, Colorado that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from August until October.

DISTANCE

7.9 miles

ELEVATION GAIN

2503 feet

ROUTE TYPE

Out & Back

birding

camping

hiking

nature trips

walking

forest

river

views

waterfall

wild flowers

wildlife

This is a tough and worthwhile hike. Did it September of 2015 and it did not disappoint. There will parking about 1 mile or so north of the trailhead because the last bit takes quite high off-road capabilities. Jacked up jeeps and trucks should be fine but it's rough and relatively steep. Trails start is very easy as it just strolls through meadow. Don't be fooled, it gets tough a couple miles in. No shade once above treeline which is a majority of it. Bring a good hat and lots of water. Couple nice river crossings and lots of wildflowers in the right season. Again, no shade so be prepared for that. 10,000-12,000 ft with no shade can be exhausting. Toward the end of the hike is large scree field that's moderately sketchy but it's a beautiful hike. We were the only people on the trail that day. 360 views of awesome.